AB139 Clears Final Certification Hurdle

Nearly six years after its launch at the 1999 Paris Air Show, Bell/Agusta’s AB139 medium twin-turbine helicopter has gained FAA IFR certification. The helicopter, which achieved Italian IFR certification in 2003, is equipped with a four-screen Honeywell Primus Epic EFIS. Three aircraft have been delivered to date. The order book currently stands at more than 80 aircraft slated for delivery to more than 40 customers, according to Bell/Agusta. AB139s are currently assembled in Italy, but the company will begin construction of an assembly facility in Amarillo, Texas, later this year, with completion scheduled for the first quarter of next year.